Forklift Training District of Columbia

Become A Certified Forklift Operator In Washington DC

Forklift operators play a vital role in the industrial manufacturing industries in Washington, DC.

Any individual that becomes a certified forklift operator in Washington DC will enjoy a salary that is 14 percent higher than what can be found for similar jobs throughout the country.

Although there are no specific local requirements for becoming a certified forklift operator, the District of Columbia follows the United States Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) rules and regulations when it comes to the requirements for becoming a certified forklift operator.

Nature Of The Job

Washington DC certified forklift operators have to use heavy equipment, specifically a forklift truck, to move materials from one spot to another in warehouses or manufacturing plants.

Additionally, forklift operators are tasked with loading and unloading trucks. Since the role is essential in the warehousing and manufacturing industries, these individuals must be thoroughly trained and certified to make sure that they operate effectively and safely.

Even though the machines they operate are no bigger than a typical golf cart, these are specialized machines and must be operated quite carefully. Safety is a primary factor when it comes to operating forklifts in order to prevent accidents to people and property as well as ensuring that the delivery of goods follows a smooth and orderly process.

Who Qualifies To Become A Forklift Operator?

People interested in working in this type of profession must fulfill a number of different requirements not only mandated by OSHA but possibly required by prospective employers.

Although there is no need for formal education to obtain forklift certification in the District of Columbia, most employers seek individuals with the minimum of a high school education and the minimum age of 18.

Additionally, candidates to become a forklift operator should be in good physical shape, possess good eyesight and in many situations have already obtained a valid driver’s license.

Attending A Training Course Is Essential

Potential forklift operators in Washington DC must attend and OSHA-qualified training course. Courses are available at area technical and community colleges.

Additionally, many employers offer on-the-job training courses that lead to forklift operator certification.

However, individuals that seek independent training can stand out from the crowd when it comes to employment application since they can indicate on their resume they already have certification.

Certification Training Provides All You Need To Know Knowledge

Whether on-the-job or at qualified facility or institution, training participants will learn all the basics that they need to know about how to become a forklift operator.

When the training session is over, each individual but will be evaluated on their performance as well as take a written examination. Once the examination has been passed, certification is issued qualifying the participant for employment.

Salary Expectations

Typically a forklift operator in the District of Columbia will expect to earn $19.02 per hour or $39,560 pa. The District of Columbia is Ranked 2nd just behind Hawaii in terms of earning potential across all states.

Check out how you compare as a forklift operator against the other states HERE.

If you want more information or have other queries the Department of Employment Services is available to assist. They provide information and comprehensive support services for job seekers, employers and much more.